Good morning, Roanoke.

Joziah, a 16-year-old featured in the 30 Days of Hope series, is known for his curious mind and gentle heart while he hopes to be adopted by a family that supports his passion for robotics, art and learning.

He plans to pursue college to build his own robots and relies on his faith to keep him determined.

AAA predicts nearly 82 million Americans will travel for Thanksgiving, including about 2 million Virginia drivers — Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday are expected to be the busiest travel days.

The Roanoke-Blacksburg Airport advises travelers to download airline mobile apps and leave early — gas prices are slightly lower than last year.

Virginia youth are invited by Youth of Virginia Speak Out About Traffic Safety to create original 30-second jingles that promote safe driving during the busy holiday season.

The contest, sponsored by state agencies + partners like State Farm, will award cash prizes to high school and middle school winners as submissions are due by 11:59 p.m. on December 12, with finalists posted for public voting from December 16 to 18.

On Nov. 22, around 1,500 people went to Explore Park in Roanoke to see holiday lights and displays with food and hot cocoa vendors—a family tradition that featured interactive attractions like fog and bubble machines.

The light show will run on select days until Jan. 4.

At Virginia Tech, teachers, students and staff shared what they are thankful for this Thanksgiving, noting family, school success and daily joys.

Their words range from heartfelt thanks to humorous nods to favorite treats—capturing the spirit of togetherness on campus.

AAA reminds drivers to follow Virginia’s Move Over law by slowing down and giving way to vehicles stopped on the roadside with flashing hazard lights—blue, red, or amber—to keep emergency workers safe ahead of Thanksgiving travel.

The law applies to trucks, cars, and motorcycles and is meant to protect roadside personnel.

Virginia’s population center has moved steadily north from Richmond since 1960 and will likely continue shifting as a study from the Weldon Cooper Center projects a slower pace—Dwayne Yancey with Cardinal News said the change is part of ongoing trends in the Commonwealth.

Today, Salem City Council will consider a request from the school division to allocate almost $2 million from the FY25 fund balance for capital improvements at schools.

The council will meet at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall — at 114 N. Broad St. — to review funding for maintenance, technology and instructional upgrades.

Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet

7-8:30 p.m. — Jefferson Center — Ticket prices apply — Experience a spectacular holiday tradition featuring an international cast and enchanting puppetry.

Champions of Magic - Holiday Spectacular

7-8:30 p.m. — Berglund Center — Tickets required — Experience an enchanting evening of dazzling illusions and festive surprises for the whole family.

The Rescue Mission Drumstick Dash

5 AM – 11 PM — Elmwood Park — Registration fee applies — Participate in a festive 5k run and family walk to support the Rescue Mission's meal services.

Phat Laces Concert

8-10 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Cost not specified — Celebrate a post-Thanksgiving night with a vibrant hip-hop tribute featuring rap and funk influences.

The Darkside Experience - Pink Floyd Tribute

8:00-9:30 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Cost Info Not Provided — Immerse yourself in the iconic sounds of Pink Floyd with a heartfelt tribute performance.

Holiday Pops Spectacular by Roanoke Symphony Orchestra

7:30-9 p.m. — Salem Civic Center — $31-$56, Children 12 & under $12 — Experience a heartwarming celebration of holiday classics with LaTetra Lewis and the Pops.

Peen: A Tribute to Ween

8:00-9:30 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — $ — Experience a lively tribute to the eclectic band Ween featuring The Big Debbies with their unique blend of groove and energy.

Fayetteville Marksmen at Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs

7:05-8:35 p.m. — Berglund Center — $3 beers all game long — Kick off the weekend early with Thirsty Thursday while cheering on the Rail Yard Dawgs.

Roanoke's Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl

4:30-9:00 p.m. — Martin's Downtown — Check Eventbrite for ticket pricing — Embrace the holiday spirit with contests, games, and cheers in your ugliest sweater at this festive pub crawl.

The Nutcracker by Southwest Virginia Ballet

3-5 p.m. — Berglund Center — Ticket purchase required — Experience the magic of The Nutcracker with a large cast and live orchestra in this beloved holiday classic.